Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew

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🍲 Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew

A hearty, budget-friendly comfort meal made with simple ingredients that slowly cook into a rich, flavorful stew. This classic “Poor Man’s Stew” is filling, family-friendly, and perfect for busy days when you want a warm, satisfying dinner waiting for you.

📝 Description

Slow Cooker Poor Man’s Stew is a humble, old-fashioned recipe made with ground beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions simmered in a savory tomato-beef broth. It’s called “poor man’s” because it uses affordable pantry staples — but the flavor tastes rich and comforting.

🛒 Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 4 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)

  • 3 carrots (sliced)

  • 1 small onion (chopped)

  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)

  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

  • 3 cups beef broth

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for browning beef)

  • Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or green beans

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.

  2. Place potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic into the slow cooker.

  3. Add cooked ground beef on top.

  4. Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce.

  5. Add Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir gently.

  6. Cover and cook:

    • Low: 6–8 hours

    • High: 3–4 hours

  7. Add frozen peas or green beans during the last 30 minutes (optional).

  8. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.

🍽 Servings

  • Serves: 6

  • Serving size: About 1½ cups

🥗 Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350

  • Protein: 22g

  • Fat: 14g

  • Carbohydrates: 35g

  • Fiber: 5g

  • Sugar: 6g

  • Iron: 20% DV

(Values vary based on ingredients used.)

💡 Tips for Best Results

  • ✔ Brown the beef first for deeper flavor.

  • ✔ Cut potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.

  • ✔ For thicker stew, mash a few potatoes into the broth.

  • ✔ Add a splash of heavy cream for a richer version.

  • ✔ Sprinkle fresh parsley before serving for brightness.

📌 Notes

  • Budget-friendly and made with pantry staples.

  • Can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.

  • Store leftovers in refrigerator up to 4 days.

  • Freezes well for up to 3 months.

  • Great for meal prep.

🌟 Health Benefits

  • High in protein for muscle support

  • Provides fiber for digestion

  • Rich in iron and B vitamins

  • Balanced meal with carbs, protein, and vegetables

  • Energy-sustaining comfort food

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I put raw ground beef directly in the slow cooker?
A: Yes, but browning first improves flavor and texture.

Q: Can I make this without tomatoes?
A: Yes, substitute with extra broth and a splash of cream for a different style stew.

Q: How do I thicken the stew?
A: Mash potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water).

Q: Can I cook it on the stovetop?
A: Yes. Simmer covered for about 45–60 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Q: What sides go well with this?
A: Crusty bread, biscuits, or a simple side salad.

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